The Charm & Travel Information of the Five Major Cities in Northeastern Queensland, Australia

Queensland, located in northeastern Australia, is a top tourist destination where you can enjoy beautiful cities, stunning beaches, and World Heritage-listed natural wonders. From the Great Barrier Reef and sand islands to the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, visitors can explore unique landscapes stretching from the coast to the inland. Experience close encounters with Australia’s native wildlife and have fun at exciting theme parks! In this guide, we’ll introduce the diverse charms of Queensland’s major cities in an easy-to-understand way!

Queensland

Queensland covers about one-quarter of northeastern Australia and is the country’s second-largest state. The northern half of Australia’s eastern coastline belongs to Queensland.
The time difference is +1 hour from Japan. When you arrive, set your clock one hour ahead.
Queensland's climate varies, with the northern part being tropical and the southern part having a subtropical climate. The state is home to five UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites and over 450 national parks and protected areas.

Queensland's climate varies, with the northern part being tropical and the southern part having a subtropical climate. The state is home to five UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites and over 450 national parks and protected areas.

Off the coast from Cairns to Townsville lies the famous Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, with over 3,000 reefs and about 900 islands.

On land, you’ll find another UNESCO World Heritage site: the Kuranda Rainforest. Enjoy breathtaking views of the vast forest and waterfalls from a cable car ride above the canopy.

The southern coast of Queensland is a long stretch of stunning beaches and resort areas. The Gold Coast is famous for surfing and marine sports, as well as its three major theme parks and wildlife parks—there’s so much to do that you’ll never have enough time!

Located between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast is Brisbane, the capital of Queensland.

Queensland is generally a safe place with world-class hygiene and healthcare standards. When visiting, don’t miss out on delicious Aussie beef, lamb, seafood, and tropical fruits—Queensland is not only a paradise for sightseeing but also for food lovers! The state offers a rich variety of attractions waiting to be explored.

1. Cairns

Cairns, which has direct flights from Japan, is the central city of northern Queensland.

It serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's largest coral reef systems stretching about 2,300 km. Many tourists from Japan visit to explore this UNESCO-listed marine wonder through diving and snorkeling or admire its breathtaking views from a helicopter tour.

For a luxurious resort experience, staying on Green Island is highly recommended. Another must-visit destination is Michaelmas Cay, a stunning sandbar where you can enjoy day trips from Cairns, including hotel transfers and marine activities.

The Kuranda Rainforest, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, can be explored in multiple ways—by the Kuranda Scenic Railway, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, or on foot.

2. Townsville

Townsville is a major port city and a hub for education, commerce, and industry in northern Queensland.

One of its landmarks is Castle Hill, a massive 286-meter monolithic rock. Visitors can drive up close to the summit, where they can enjoy panoramic views, including Magnetic Island, which lies offshore. A short walk from the parking area leads to multiple scenic viewpoints—perfect for sightseeing.

Magnetic Island is accessible via ferry and is home to one of the largest wild koala colonies in the world. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching, featuring species like cockatoos and kookaburras.

Meanwhile, Hamilton Island is one of the largest resort islands in the Great Barrier Reef. With both ferry and domestic flight access from cities like Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, it is a top choice for honeymooners and tourists.

3. Sunshine Coast

Located about 1 hour north of Brisbane by car, the Sunshine Coast is a vibrant resort area with over 50 km of stunning beaches, starting from the town of Caloundra.

The Great Sandy National Park consists of two areas: Cooloola and Fraser Island.

Fraser Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the world’s largest sand island, stretching approximately 120 km from north to south. Aside from its beautiful beaches, the island is home to Lake McKenzie, one of the world’s clearest freshwater lakes, along with numerous other lakes of varying colors—a must-see attraction.

4. Brisbane

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is the political, economic, and cultural hub of the state. It is the third-largest city in Australia.

The Brisbane River, which flows through the city center, enhances the beauty of the urban landscape.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world's largest koala sanctuary, home to approximately 130 koalas, as well as various other Australian native animals that are cared for and protected.

Within about a 60km radius of Brisbane’s city center, there are more than ten national parks and reserves. Off the coast, many sand islands are scattered, including the second and third-largest sand islands in the world.
The second-largest sand island is North Stradbroke Island, famous for its stunning beaches, scenic spots, and great fishing opportunities.

To the north of it is Moreton Island, the third-largest sand island in the world. Most of the island is designated as Moreton Island National Park, where visitors can participate in dolphin-feeding experiences and whale and dugong-watching tours.
Near the coastline, numerous shipwrecks have created a habitat for colorful fish and sea turtles, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
These islands can be explored on a day trip from Brisbane via ferry or water taxi, but for a more relaxed experience, staying at one of the island’s accommodations is recommended.

From city strolls and art appreciation to shopping and exploring sand islands and national parks, Brisbane offers diverse attractions. Additionally, the Gold Coast, located just 70km away, is easily accessible for a day trip.

5. Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s premier resort destinations. Located at the southernmost part of Queensland's coastline, its 40km stretch of golden beaches glistens under the sun, making it a paradise for beach lovers.

At the heart of the city is Surfers Paradise, an internationally renowned hotspot for surfers.

In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy a variety of marine activities, including parasailing and sea kayaking.

One of the highlights of the Gold Coast is its amusement parks. It is home to large-scale theme parks such as Sea World, Movie World, and Dreamworld, as well as wildlife parks and aquariums that cater to visitors of all ages.

There are many large-scale leisure facilities such as zoos and aquariums that anyone can enjoy.

The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the southern coast of the Gold Coast, is a haven for native wildlife.

Inland, the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, allows visitors to explore ancient ecosystems while enjoying breathtaking views.
The Springbrook National Park, famous for its glow worms at Natural Bridge, and the Lamington National Park, known for its subtropical rainforest canopy, offer a chance to experience the region’s rich biodiversity.

Why not visit a natural forest, such as Lamington National Park, where you can explore a sea of subtropical rainforest?

◎ Queensland is Full of Attractions!

Queensland is the closest Australian state to Japan, with direct flights available to its major cities, as well as numerous connecting flights. The minimal time difference of just one hour makes it an attractive travel destination.
Additionally, the north and south of Queensland have different climates, offering a wide variety of natural landscapes, from coral reefs and rainforests to sand islands.
Enjoy beach activities and marine sports, interact with wildlife at zoos and sanctuaries, and have fun at huge amusement parks—Queensland is packed with diverse experiences!

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The Charm & Travel Information of the Five Major Cities in Northeastern Queensland, Australia